Application Deadline:
31 October 2025
About Organisation
The GRASS CEILING Project is an EU-funded initiative that aims to amplify women’s participation and leadership in rural innovation, sustainability, and socio-ecological transformation. The project works across multiple European countries to support women as key contributors to rural development, ensuring that their ideas and enterprises receive the visibility and support they deserve.
GRASS CEILING brings together researchers, practitioners, and community leaders to create inclusive ecosystems that enable women to thrive in traditionally male-dominated sectors like agriculture, fisheries, and forestry. Through its initiatives, the project highlights how gender equality and innovation can jointly drive rural economic diversification and resilience.
The Rural Women Innovators (RUWI) Award, established under this program, embodies GRASS CEILING’s mission by recognising and celebrating women-led innovations that transform rural areas into more sustainable, equitable, and vibrant communities.
About the Grant
The Rural Women Innovators (RUWI) Award celebrates women across rural Europe who are driving transformation through creativity, sustainability, and innovation. Organised under the GRASS CEILING Project, this award aims to spotlight women making significant contributions to rural economies through socio-ecological innovation.
The initiative acknowledges the essential yet often under-recognised role of women in areas like agriculture, forestry, fisheries, digital services, eco-tourism, and community leadership. Winners will gain visibility, professional recognition, and access to European networks supporting women-led innovation.
The award winner will be announced on 21 November 2025, and will receive full sponsorship to present their work at the GRASS CEILING Final Showcase Event, hosted at the European Parliament in Brussels on 3–4 December 2025. This opportunity provides not just recognition but also a platform to influence policy and inspire others.
Through RUWI, the GRASS CEILING project aims to strengthen inclusion, equity, and empowerment within Europe’s rural innovation landscape.
Who can Apply?
The RUWI Award is open to women innovators, as well as individuals and organisations that foster women’s leadership and innovation in rural areas. Eligible nominees include entrepreneurs, researchers, cooperatives, mentors, non-profits, community groups, and companies that support or enable women to lead change.
Projects can span a wide variety of initiatives—from developing sustainable farming systems and short value chains to building eco-tourism enterprises, launching digital platforms, or mentoring women to enhance their leadership capacities.
Applicants or nominees must demonstrate a tangible impact on rural sustainability, economic diversification, or gender equality. Priority will be given to those whose work aligns with socio-ecological innovation and contributes to strengthening community well-being and resilience.
The award also welcomes nominations from those who actively challenge gender stereotypes or create enabling environments for women to succeed in rural entrepreneurship.
By encouraging diverse participation, RUWI aims to amplify women’s voices, promote knowledge-sharing, and catalyse innovation across Europe’s rural regions.
How to Apply?
Eligible applicants or nominators must complete the online nomination form available through the GRASS CEILING Project platform. Submissions should include a project summary, evidence of innovation or impact, and a short description of how the initiative empowers women in rural areas. Supporting materials—such as testimonials, visuals, or reports—may also be submitted. Nominations must be received before the stated deadline to qualify.
Application Deadline
The Rural Women Innovators Award (RUWI) nomination deadline is 31 October 2025. Late or incomplete submissions will not be accepted under any circumstances.
Last Date To Apply
For more information, please visit the grant website here.
